We had the rare thrill of dining at Nusr-Et Steakhouse in Midtown Manhattan, and to our delight, Salt Bae himself — Nusret Gökçe — was there, slicing steaks with his signature flair. Watching his videos online is one thing, but seeing him in person? It’s a whole different level of charisma and showmanship.
The restaurant, located at 60 W 53rd St, New York, is known for its luxurious cuts of wagyu, theatrical tableside service, and a vibe that blends fine dining with viral spectacle. From the $39 lunch special to the gold-plated Tomahawk steaks, the menu caters to both curious newcomers and seasoned steak lovers.
What stood out most wasn’t just the food — though the steak was smoky, tender, and perfectly seasoned — but Salt Bae’s genuine attention to guests. He didn’t just perform; he connected. When he noticed we had kids at the table, he thoughtfully sliced the steak into smaller, chewable bites for them. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about his humility and awareness.
Salt Bae’s journey is nothing short of cinematic. Born in Erzurum, Turkey, to a working-class Kurdish family, he left school early due to financial hardship and began working as a butcher’s apprentice in Istanbul. His rise to fame began in 2017 with a viral video of his flamboyant salt-sprinkling — a moment that turned into a global meme and launched a culinary empire.
Today, his net worth is estimated at $70–80 million, and his Nusr-Et restaurants span the globe, from Dubai to London to New York3. Despite the fame and fortune, he remains hands-on, often appearing at his restaurants and engaging with guests — not just as a chef, but as a performer and host.
